The festive season is not just about twinkling lights and carols; it’s also a time for delightful treats that bring people together. One such charming recipe is the Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees. These whimsical, edible trees are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious savory snack that perfectly encapsulates the joy of the holidays. Crafted from flaky puff pastry, layered with deli ham and cheese, they make for an effortlessly elegant appetizer that’s sure to impress guests at your holiday gatherings.

What makes this recipe special

You might wonder why these delightful little trees should claim space on your holiday table. First and foremost, they’re incredibly easy to make—perfect for those busy days leading up to the festivities! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these Christmas trees come together quickly and offer a great way to involve kids in the kitchen. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences, making them a versatile option for any gathering.

“Everyone loved these! They vanished within minutes and were the perfect holiday appetizer. I’ll definitely be making these every year!”

How this recipe comes together

Creating these fun and festive treats is simpler than you might think. You’ll start by layering your ingredients, then cut them into strips that resemble tree shapes. After brushing them with a mouthwatering garlic-butter glaze, they’ll be baked to golden perfection. They’re best enjoyed warm but still taste delightful at room temperature—ideal for a busy holiday buffet!

What you’ll need

To whip up these enticing Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees, gather the following ingredients:

2 sheets of puff pastry (thawed)
12 slices of deli ham (thinly sliced)
12 slices of cheese (options like cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella work wonderfully)
24 wooden skewers
4 tablespoons of melted butter
2 teaspoons of minced garlic
2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
A sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds for optional decorative flair
A thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam (for that sweet-savory surprise!)
Star-shaped cheese cutouts for a festive tree topper (optional)
Consider swapping ham for turkey or a spinach-artichoke spread for vegetarian guests.

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Layer the filling: Roll out one puff pastry sheet. Arrange the cheese slices on top, followed by the ham. Place the second sheet of pastry over the top and press it down lightly.
Cut into strips: Using a sharp knife, slice the layered pastry into 1-inch wide strips.
Form tree shapes: Take each strip and fold it back and forth onto a skewer to create a tree-like shape.
Apply the glaze: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Brush the mixture generously over the assembled trees.
Bake: Place the skewers on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they puff up and turn a lovely golden brown.
Cool and serve: Let them cool for a minute before serving warm to your guests. They also hold their flavor well when served at room temperature.

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving these Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees, presentation is key! Arrange them on a festive platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or edible flowers for a pop of color. Pair them with a side of homemade cranberry sauce or a zesty dipping sauce to elevate the flavors. Consider offering a variety of cheese and ham options for guests to customize their bites.

How to store & freeze

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (though they’re bound to disappear fast!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to restore their flaky texture. Alternatively, you can freeze unbaked trees on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for convenience.

Practical cooking tips

Here are some extra tips to ensure perfect results:

Ensure your puff pastry is thoroughly thawed for unbeatable flakiness.
Experiment with different cheese combinations for depth of flavor.
If your trees aren’t standing straight, just fix them by adjusting how you thread them onto the skewers.

Creative twists

Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Consider adding ingredients like spinach or roasted red peppers for an extra veggie boost. Cheese varieties like pepper jack can add a spicy kick, or use cream cheese for a richer texture. Don’t shy away from decorating these trees with various toppings to suit your occasion!

Your questions answered

How long does it take to prepare the puff pastry trees?
Preparation typically takes about 20 minutes, with an additional 20-25 minutes for baking.
Can I use whole wheat puff pastry instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat options can provide a richer flavor and are often healthier.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through to maintain flakiness.

Incorporating these festive Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees into your holiday spread is sure to bring smiles and satisfied taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a cozy family dinner, these easy-to-make pastries are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

Delightful holiday appetizer shaped like Christmas trees, made with flaky puff pastry, deli ham, and cheese, brushed with garlic-butter glaze.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 25

Total Time 45

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American, Holiday

Servings 12 pieces

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

Puff Pastry Base

2 sheets sheets of puff pastry (thawed)

Filling

12 slices slices of deli ham (thinly sliced)
12 slices slices of cheese (options like cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella)

Assembly

24 pieces wooden skewers
4 tablespoons melted butter
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
to taste sesame or poppy seeds (for optional decorative flair)
to taste honey mustard or fig jam (for that sweet-savory surprise)
optional star-shaped cheese cutouts (for festive tree topper)

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out one puff pastry sheet and arrange cheese slices on top, followed by the ham. Place the second sheet of pastry over the top and press lightly.
Using a sharp knife, slice the layered pastry into 1-inch wide strips.
Take each strip and fold it back and forth onto a skewer to create a tree-like shape.

Baking

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Brush the mixture generously over the assembled trees.
Place the skewers on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they puff up and turn a lovely golden brown.
Let them cool for a minute before serving warm to guests.

Notes

These trees are best enjoyed warm but taste delightful at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keyword Christmas Recipes, Festive Snacks, Ham and Cheese, Holiday Appetizer, Puff Pastry